WKU Softball snapped its single-season home run record in its 7-5 win at Evansville Wednesday evening, but not without some bumps in the road.

First baseman Annie White wasted no time snapping the record, as the junior sent one over the left field wall in the top of the first. WKU’s single-season home run record is now at 51 and counting.

An RBI single in the top of the second and an explosive four-run top of the fourth put the Hilltoppers up 6-0, but the Purple Aces refused to go down without a fight.

Evansville started its scoring in the bottom of the fourth with an RBI single. A double and a walk from junior starter Rylan Smith loaded the bases, and Evansville’s Maliyah Wilkins took advantage. The sophomore pinch hitter sent one over the left field wall, hitting a grand slam and cutting WKU’s lead to one.

Immediately after giving up the grand slam, Smith was replaced by sophomore Erica Houge in the circle. Smith finished her 3.1 innings allowing five runs on six hits and striking out four.

After a quiet fifth inning from both squads, the Hilltoppers looked to regain momentum in the top of the sixth. Junior shortstop Morgan Sharpe reached on a fielder’s choice, advancing redshirt senior center fielder Jenna Blanton to third base. WKU failed to capitalize and stranded two, as freshman catcher Lauren Satterly struck out swinging.

WKU added its seventh and final run in the top of the seventh on a throwing error by Evansville’s shortstop that scored pinch runner Macy Gregor.

The Purple Aces had the chance to walk it off with runners on second and third with two outs, but an infield flyout cemented the Hilltoppers’ 7-5 win.

Houge finished throwing 3.2 innings, during which she allowed zero runs on just one hit.

Blanton led the Hilltopper offense, contributing to three of WKU’s 12 total hits.

The Hilltoppers look to carry their momentum this weekend in a Conference USA home series against UTEP. Game one is set for 6 p.m. CT.